The provincial government has approved disaster declarations by the Town of Blue Mountains, West Grey and Grey Highlands, which were hit by tornadoes last month.

The provincial government has approved disaster declarations by the Town of Blue Mountains, West Grey and Grey Highlands, which were hit by tornadoes last month.

Municipal Affairs Minister Jim Watson declared the entire affected region a disaster, making it eligible for provincial assistance, and the province will provide $2 for every dollar raised locally in disaster relief.

Although the damage figure in the three affected communities is still being added up, Warden Kevin Eccles says it has surpassed the $30-million mark.

Eccles welcomes the approval from the province, but doubts anyone will see any money within six months.

He says the three communities will have to first set up a joint disaster relief committee, which will oversee fundraising and settle claims.

The Ontario disaster relief assistance program helps residents where insurance does not cover losses.

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